FireWire making gains in consumer products

FireWire Depot isn't just an esoteric data interface for computers, according to market research firm In-Stat/MDR. The company today reported that FireWire is making broad gains in consumer markets worldwide. In fact, FireWire-equipped consumer products overtook PC-based products in 2001 according to the report.

Solid growth in FireWire-based products is predicted at 21 percent this year. The high-speed digital interface is already a popular addition on digital camcorders and will see more exposure as it expands to other consumer electronic markets and the automotive industry, said In-Stat/MDR.

Major inhibitors to further FireWire adoption include regulatory and legislative involvement, the current slowdown in the tech market, the advent of USB 2.0 and a lack of practical applications beyond digital video editing, said the report. Regardless, "the breadth of applications for 1394 ultimately points to a huge opportunity," they said.

The total market for FireWire-equipped devices grew by 33 percent in 2001, to more than 46 million units, according to the report. PC manufacturers are including the technology in laptop PCs "at a significant pace" that's expected to increase over the next several years.

PCW Evaluation Team

I would recommend this device for families and small businesses who want one safe place to store all their important digital content and a way to easily share it with friends, family, business partners, or customers.

Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of IDG Communications is prohibited. Copyright 2013 IDG Communications.
ABN 14 001 592 650. All rights reserved.

Contact Us

With over 25 years of brand awareness and credibility, Good Gear Guide (formerly PC World Australia), consistently delivers editorial excellence through award-winning content and trusted product reviews.